Staff Correspondent

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon MP today termed Bangladeshi nationalism as the fundamental basis of self-identity, sovereign existence, and national unity for the people of Bangladesh.

He made the remarks while attending the formal unveiling of the book “Bangladeshi Jatiyatabadi: Tarique Rahman O Bartaman Prekkhapot” (Bangladeshi Nationalism: Tarique Rahman and the Present Context), authored by writer, researcher, and organizer Ruhul Amin.

The unveiling ceremony was organized by the Center for Bangladesh Studies (CBS) at the Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club on Monday afternoon.

Addressing the event as the chief guest, the Information Minister stated, “Bangladeshi nationalism is not merely a political slogan; it is a political and social philosophy deeply intertwined with our people's self-identity, patriotism, independence, and national solidarity. To understand a nation’s identity, one must comprehend its history, struggle, culture, and state philosophy. Ruhul Amin’s book is a timely and valuable effort to enrich that discourse.”
Swapon emphasized that discussions around political philosophy and research should not remain confined within partisan boundaries. "While opinions on a political philosophy may vary, open academic research and discussion are essential for a democratic society. It is necessary to present the historical background and contemporary relevance of Bangladeshi nationalism to the new generation through facts and logic," he added.

He further noted that an inclusive national identity is required to establish durable national unity—one that values an overarching identity as Bangladeshi citizens while respecting diversity in religion, ethnicity, language, and region.
Special Guest Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas MP, Chief Coordinator of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Sramik Dal and lawmaker for Pabna-5, remarked that the philosophy of Bangladeshi nationalism is inextricably linked with people's democratic rights and state sovereignty.

"To uphold nationalism, we must give top priority to civil rights, justice, and national interests. This book will offer readers valuable insight into the evolution of Bangladeshi nationalism and its contemporary political relevance," he said.
During the event, Information Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon officially launched the Information, Research, and Cultural Wing website (www.ircwing.org) under the Center for Bangladesh Studies.
Presided over by Adv Nazrul Haq Nannu, President of CBS and Adviser to the BNP Chairman, the event was welcomed by CBS Vice President Shaheen Akhtar Shimul.
SM Humayun Patwary, Chairman of Durbar Publications and publisher of the book, delivered the address, criticizing long-standing political propaganda aimed at undermining Bangladeshi nationalism and the legacy of the Zia family.

He called for intellectual responses to anti-national narrative campaigns to educate the youth and international audiences.

The 144-page book, published by Durbar Publications, explores the historical foundation of Bangladeshi nationalism, the state philosophy of late President Ziaur Rahman, the political role of Khaleda Zia, and the relevance of Bangladeshi nationalism under the current leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.

The event moderated by Akhinur Jyoti—was attended by prominent journalists, academics, political figures, and cultural activists, including daily Jugantor Editor Abdul Hai Shikdar, Rabindra University Vice-Chancellor Prof. Tahmina Akhtar, former Pustu Vice-Chancellor Dr. Abdul Latif Masum, Mohona TV Executive Director MA Malek, and film director Bodiul Alam Khokon, among others.